Emergency Management Watch Officer

The State of Arkansas is hiring an Emergency Management Watch Officer in Pulaski, VA. This entry-level position involves monitoring and analyzing emergency information to support disaster response and public safety. Responsibilities include assessing emergency situations, relaying critical updates, coordinating resource deployment, and maintaining communication systems. Candidates should have a basic understanding of emergency management principles and strong communication skills. The anticipated salary ranges from $39,171 to $57,973.
Position Number: 22137171

County: Pulaski

Posting End Date: [[postingEndDate]]

Anticipated Starting Salary: 39171

[[section]]



The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency.


Position Information Job Series: Emergency Management – Career Path

Classification: Emergency Management Watch Officer

Class Code: SEM05P

Pay Grade: SGS03

Salary Range: $39,171- $57,973

Job Summary The Emergency Management Watch Officer is responsible for monitoring, collecting, and analyzing emergency-related information to support state and local agencies in disaster response and public safety efforts. This entry-level role ensures that critical incidents are reported accurately and in a timely manner, facilitates communication between emergency responders, and supports the operation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).Primary Responsibilities Monitor weather alerts, emergency notifications, and real-time incident reports from multiple sources.
Maintain continuous situational awareness of potential and ongoing emergency situations statewide.
Assess, verify, and report emergency-related information to agency leadership, first responders, local authorities, and other state and federal partners.
Act as the primary point of contact for emergency calls and information requests.
Relay critical updates, warnings, and incident details to emergency management officials and response teams.
Assist in coordinating resource deployment and response efforts as directed.
Ensure accurate documentation and tracking of incoming and outgoing communications.
Maintain and update incident logs, situation reports, and operational briefings.
Support EOC personnel in coordinating disaster response and recovery activities.
Ensure equipment and communication systems are operational and ready for activation.
Provide timely and accurate emergency information to government agencies, emergency responders, and the public.
Assist in public alerts and notifications regarding severe weather, disasters, or other emergencies.
Maintain detailed records of emergency incidents and response actions.
Ensure compliance with state and federal emergency communication protocols.Knowledge and Skills Basic understanding of emergency management principles, public safety procedures, and disaster response and recovery protocols.
Familiarity with National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) guidelines (preferred).
Ability to effectively use emergency communication platforms, radio dispatch systems, and mapping software.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for relaying emergency information.
Ability to work under high-pressure situations and remain calm during emergencies.
Skilled at coordinating with multiple agencies and responding to urgent situations efficiently.
Strong analytical skills to assess and verify emergency reports.
Critical thinking skills to identify gaps in emergency situations and recommend solutions.
Ability to quickly evaluate situations, identify critical issues, and escalate incidents appropriately.
Detail-oriented approach to documenting events, tracking resources, and ensuring accurate reporting.
Ability to prioritize tasks in fast-paced, high-stress environments.
Strong multitasking abilities to handle simultaneous calls, reports, and requests.Minimum Qualifications At least six months of experience in emergency management, public safety, communications, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications Completion of FEMA Incident Command System (ICS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS) certification
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.